US Congressmen Riley Moore and Chris Smith have introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, recommending targeted sanctions, asset freezes, and visa bans against former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, and what they describe as “Fulani ethnic nomad militias.”
The bill, shared Tuesday by Moore on X, alleges that the named individuals and groups are responsible for “severe violations of religious freedom” in Nigeria. It provides detailed statistics and historical accounts of attacks on Christians, as well as on Muslims who advocate for religious tolerance.
Highlighting what they describe as a “failure of the Nigerian government to prosecute or convict jihadist actors,” the lawmakers called for international cooperation, urging support from France, the United Kingdom, and Hungary to hold perpetrators accountable.
The proposed legislation also seeks investigations into cases where non-Muslims are allegedly subjected to Sharia or blasphemy laws. Among the victims cited in the report are Rhoda Jatau and Deborah Yakubu.
“The ongoing attacks on religious minorities and those advocating tolerance are alarming. Accountability must be enforced, and those responsible must face sanctions,” Moore said in his post sharing the bill.
Smith added, “The United States has a responsibility to stand with victims of religious persecution globally. This legislation will help ensure that individuals and groups who perpetrate these abuses cannot operate with impunity.”
The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 now awaits further review and discussion in Congress.
Boluwatife Enome
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